TRUMPF multi-junction VCSEL technology drives system efficiency and miniaturization

Ulm, October 11, 2022 – TRUMPF Photonic Components, a global leader in VCSEL and photodiode solutions, supports the request for miniaturization in consumer electronics and automotive, and expands its VCSEL array portfolio with the multi-junction feature. The tunnel function technology offers a highly efficient solution for the demanding trend towards miniaturization. With tunnel functions, the performance of a single VCSEL is increased, as multiple active zones are put into series in the same VCSEL component. Up to three times the output can be generated out of the same VCSEL device. Most illumination applications benefit from higher efficiency and increase in output power with the same VCSEL light source. “Our customers also benefit from an increase in flexibility. Based on their application needs, they can configure their VCSEL components with a single, double, or triple junction”, says Alexander Weigl, Head of Product Management at TRUMPF Photonic Components.

Application in automotive industry

The multi-junction technology supports applications such as LiDAR, as this application in the automotive branch requires high-output power within limited space for the short and long-range identification of objects. “We even combine the multi-junction technology with our ViBO technology platform. Due to our integration approach to make our VCSELs smarter, this unique VCSEL comes with integrated backside optics and is already up to five to ten times smaller compared to other VCSELs”, explains Weigl. “This is a big step towards miniaturization, while increasing output power and reliability of the VCSEL components”, Weigl adds.

Customer benefit from a VCSEL toolbox

The VCSEL technology will remain a main light source for applications in smartphones, consumer electronics and automotive applications, as they are highly efficient and boast a long service life. Based on the application requirements, TRUMPF offers options with highly integrated optical structures for the best fit. Therefore, along with the multi-junction option and monolithically integrated optics, VCSELs can offer polarization control for improved illumination quality, or integrated photodiodes to enable the further processing of light signals. To offer robust VCSEL devices with high performance, TRUMPF covers the whole process chain, from the developing and designing right to its manufacturing of their VCSELs solutions.

Digital photographs in print-ready resolution are available to illustrate this press release. They may only be used for editorial purposes. Use is free of charge when credit is given as “Photo: TRUMPF”. Graphic editing – except for cropping the main subject – is prohibited. Additional photos can be accessed at the TRUMPF Media Pool